From The Devil, The Fool learns he can break free at any time.
By Michelle Crandell
The Fool approaches a dark mountain. His next lesson is there. He sees a large creature, half man/ half goat: the ruler of this land. The Goat-man’s subjects are chained to his throne. They’re indulging in every form of carnal desire: lust, gluttony, sadism, addiction…all with great abandon.
The Fool begins to feel hungry, not just for fleshly indulgences, but for power, wealth and fame. “I have given my temptations up!” the Fool proclaims. “I…I am on a Spiritual Quest.”
“Oh REALLY,” the Devil replies, “so, you’ve found a way to stop being human? I’ve heard that joke before…usually from Holy Men.”
Bending down, the Devil says, “Look in the mirror, fool. Your eyes are in the front or your face…just like all the other predators. Carnal desire is in your nature.”
The Fool fears the Devil. He is powerful. He imprisons people by using their own desires. “I could be next,” he thinks. Reading the Fools mind, the Devil gestures, “Take another look.”
The Fool obeys. He sees that the “prisoners” could easily slip out of their bondage. “They can break free anytime,” says the Devil. “People remain because they decide to be controlled by earthly desires. The ‘Devil made me do it?’ Oh, please.”
He prances in a circle. “The humans who AREN’T here have harnessed their desires to climb the highest mountains, and even,” (he shakes his tail) “develop a sense of humor about the human condition.” “So listen seeker, lighten up. You’re the boss of you…that’s hard enough.”
Michelle Crandell provides individual readings for a fee. Once a year, she teaches LEARN TO READ TAROT. For more information, email michelle.crandell@gmail.com or call 501-655-6242.
